Queenslanders access Smart Saver website to help ease household bill pressure

Tens of thousands of Queenslanders have logged on to the Palaszczuk Government’s Smart Saver website to access information about the $5.3 billion in government concessions and measures available to ease household bill pressure.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk told State Parliament today that 78,000 people had visited the Smart Saver website 96,360 times since it was launched in June this year.

The Smart Saver website features information on concessions across 17 categories.

“I am very aware of the financial pressures faced by tens of thousands of Queensland families every day,” Ms Palaszczuk said

“That’s why my government has put in place a comprehensive series of measures to help ease that burden.

“In this year’s budget, my Government committed $5.3 billion to help Queensland households.

“Those concessions cover day-to-day costs including energy, water, seniors, transport, health, education disability, housing and training.

“There are so many concessions available that my government decided to put them all in one, easily accessible place.

“I urge all Queenslanders to check their eligibility for My Government’s concessions and rebates by visiting the Smart Savings website or by ringing the Queensland Government call centre on 13QGOV.”

The Premier said while jobs growth and exports in Queensland are strong, it can be difficult for vulnerable and disadvantaged Queenslanders to reap the benefits that flow from those strengths without the government’s assistance.

“Since coming to office, we have increased the Electricity Rebate for the Queensland Seniors Card, the Pensioner Concession Card and the Department of Veterans Affairs Gold Card by almost $20, to $340.85 in 2017-18,” the Premier said.

“There are concessions for interest-free rental bond loans, the equivalent of up to four weeks rent, for people who cannot afford to pay a full bond to move into private rental accommodation.

“The Spectacle Supply Scheme provides eligible Queensland residents with a pair of basic prescription spectacles, once every two years.

“And Home Assist Secure helps eligible people over 60, or those with a disability, with assistance to remain living in their home, either owned or rented.”

The Smart Saver website can be accessed at www.qld.gov.au/smartsavings

Media contat: Michelle Wellington 0437 323 834